People's Artist of Azerbaijan Rauf Babayev has passed away at the age of 82, the Ministry of Culture informed. 

The deceased will be burried at the Second Alley of Honor today.

Culture Minister Abulfas Garayev has recommended mass media representatives not to join the farewell ceremony.

It is noteworthy that Rauf Babayev was born in Gumru in 1937. In 1956, he graduated from Baku Music College and in 1962, from Azerbaijan State Conservatoire. Since 1961, he was a member of the "Gaya" vocal instrumental group. In 1995-2001, he was the art director of the "Bari bakh" vocal group.

Since 2001, the singer was the art director of the "Gaya" State Ensemble. He was on tours in a number of foreign countries. 

In January 1978, R. Babayev received the title of the honorable artist of Azerbaijan SSR, and in September 2006, the title of the People's Artist. 

May he rest in peace!